If summer had a signature dish, it might just be these bright, juicy BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs. Tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and colorful veggies are grilled to tasty perfection and brushed with sticky barbecue sauceโevery bite feels like a tropical vacation! Whether youโre hosting a backyard gathering or simply craving some sun-kissed flavors, these kabobs spotlight that irresistible sweet-and-smoky combo everyone loves.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs is all about the harmony of simple, vibrant ingredients. Each one brings something special to the party, from the bold color of bell peppers to the juicy pop of pineapple, all tied together with a tangy, smoky sauce.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean, juicy, and perfect for soaking up all those delicious flavors.
- Fresh Pineapple Chunks: Go for freshโits natural sweetness caramelizes beautifully on the grill and gives these kabobs their tropical twist.
- Red Bell Pepper: Brings a pop of color and a sweet, subtle crispness to every bite.
- Green Bell Pepper: Offers a slightly earthier flavor that pairs perfectly with the other veggies.
- Red Onion: Adds a mild, savory touch and gorgeous color contrast to the skewers.
- Barbecue Sauce: The classic smoky-sweet sauce binds everything togetherโchoose your favorite store-bought or homemade variety.
- Pineapple Juice: Enhances the tropical vibe and makes the marinade extra juicy.
- Olive Oil: Helps keep the chicken moist while adding a subtle richness.
- Garlic Powder: For a little boost of savory depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing sweetness.
- Skewers: Use sturdy wooden (soaked) or metal skewers to keep everything secure on the grill.
How to Make BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Step 1: Soak the Skewers
If youโre using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to keep them from burning once they hit the grill. This little step might feel minor, but it makes all the difference for safe, drama-free cooking!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk your barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Toss in the chicken cubes and make sure every piece gets a good coating. Let the flavors mingle for at least 15 to 30 minutesโa short marinade is enough for maximum zing.
Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs
Time to get colorful! Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, red and green bell peppers, and red onion pieces onto your skewers, alternating for the prettiest visual (and best flavor bites). Leave a little space between each piece so everything cooks evenly.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs for 10โ12 minutes, turning every few minutes and basting with extra barbecue sauce as they sizzle. Look for grill marks and a bit of caramelizationโwhen the chicken is just cooked through and everything smells amazing, theyโre ready.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once off the grill, let the kabobs rest for a few minutes to keep the juices locked in. This final pause makes a huge difference in tenderness, so grab your plates and sides while you wait!
How to Serve BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Garnishes
Elevate your kabobs with a shower of freshly chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or even a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Each garnish adds color and a fresh note that wakes up the whole dish.
Side Dishes
BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are crowd-pleasers on their own, but they seriously shine alongside fluffy rice, grilled corn on the cob, or a zesty cucumber salad. For a low-carb option, try serving with cauliflower rice or simple mixed greens.
Creative Ways to Present
For a backyard party, arrange the kabobs in a fan on a big platter, scatter extra pineapple and bell pepper pieces around the edges, and serve with dipping bowls of extra BBQ sauce. Or turn these skewers into kabob “burrito bowls” over rice for a casual weeknight dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs store beautifully! Simply remove them from the skewers, place in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They make a fantastic second-day lunch, especially tossed over salads or into wraps.
Freezing
If youโd like to freeze, transfer the cooked chicken and veggies (off the skewers) into a freezer-safe bag or container. Theyโll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
For the juiciest results, reheat the kabobs gently in the oven at 350ยฐF until warmed through, or give them a quick zap in the microwave. Splash a little extra pineapple juice or BBQ sauce over before warming to keep things extra moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits with these kabobs?
Absolutely! While pineapple is classic, mango or peach chunks also caramelize beautifully and bring a fun twist to the BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs.
How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked on the grill?
The best way is to use a meat thermometerโthe internal temperature should reach 165ยฐF. Look for juices that run clear and chicken thatโs firm to the touch.
Can these kabobs be baked instead of grilled?
Yes, you can! Arrange the assembled skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake at 425ยฐF for 18โ20 minutes, turning halfway and basting with extra sauce.
Whatโs the best BBQ sauce to use?
Itโs totally up to your preferenceโsmoky, spicy, or honey-sweet BBQ sauces all work with BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs. Use a brand you love, or whip up a homemade batch if you have a favorite recipe!
Can I prep the kabobs in advance for a party?
Definitely! You can assemble and marinate the kabobs up to a day ahead, storing them covered in the fridge until itโs grill time. This makes entertaining (almost) effortless!
Final Thoughts
Whether youโre firing up the grill for a weekend cookout or craving a fun weeknight dinner, BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are always a hit. Give them a tryโyour taste buds (and guests) will thank you for the burst of sweet, smoky, colorful flavor!
Print
BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and colorful bell peppers grilled to perfection. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they are ideal for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken Kabobs:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 green bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1/2 red onion (cut into chunks)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Marinade:
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Marinate for 15โ30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and red onion alternately onto the skewers.
- Grill the Kabobs: Grill for 10โ12 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with extra barbecue sauce, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Serve: Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve with rice, grilled corn, or a fresh salad.
- Add zucchini or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- For more caramelization, brush with additional BBQ sauce during the final minutes of grilling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg